Payson Junior High will air on NBC Today show on Sunday, October 18,

Submitted by lana.hiskey on Tue, 10/13/2015 - 16:32

Payson Junior High will air on NBC Today show on Sunday, October 18, during the 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. show. Harry Smith flew out to Payson Junior High to conduct the interviews himself.

Jennifer Braithwaite, physical education teacher, and Jesse Sorenson, former assistant principal and avid cyclist, had a vision to help students be more active, improve focus and classroom academics. They applied for a $17,000 grant through Specialized Bicycles Components for 30 bicycles. 

Mr. Sorenson said, “At first the school was mostly interested in getting 30 free bicycles; however, we (the instructors and students) have gained much more. This program has been a great tool to provide leadership opportunities, improve focus for all students and get students active.”

The program at Payson Junior High was one of 14 schools selected nation-wide to participate in a study that examined the effects of cycling on students with ADHD. Payson Junior was recognized as the most successful program in the nation as far as program implementation and execution all due to Ms. Braithwaite’s and Mr. Sorenson’s dedication to the students.  

Over the past two years, Payson Junior participated in research to find ways to support and target students who can benefit most from the class and the bikes. Ms. Braithwaite continues to find funding and ways to improve the program and student achievement through targeted cycling programs.

Specialized provided the school with 30 bicycles, heart rate monitors, and helmets. Ms. Braithwaite has had to be creative in finding ways to maintain the bikes including punctured tires etc. 

Don’t forget to tune in on the morning Sunday, October 18, around 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. to see all those that were interviewed for this amazing program at Payson Junior High. Harry Smith conducted the interviews with a personal testimonial by Bridger Davis, student, and Marche Bergen, his mom. Others that were involved in taping the show include founder and CEO of Specialized Bicycle Components Mike Sinyard, Lucy August-Perna and Katie Sue Gruner from Specialized all made the trip and the event possible.

Congratulations to Alesha LeMmon for answering this week’s “Where are we Wednesday?” challenge sponsored by Wiggy Wash.

Attributions
Lana H. Hiskey
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